FIFA World Cup ticket holders can get priority visa appointments, US President Trump says

A meeting between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump has resulted in 2026 World Cup ticket holders being given priority visa interviews, FIFA said.

Monday’s announcement outlined a new FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS), aimed at making the process of obtaining visas for the tournament as smooth as possible and hopefully increasing international participation in the 2026 World Cup.

A tougher crackdown on immigration and deportations by the Trump administration in 2025 has led to public doubts about the wisdom of holding North America’s premier soccer tournament as previously planned.

The World Cup is expected to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States in 16 cities, hosting 48 teams (expanded from 32).

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“The United States will welcome fans from around the world on an unprecedented scale, and we are preparing to ensure that soccer unites the world when the tournament kicks off in North America in June,” Infantino said in a statement.

Demand for tickets has seemingly not been dampened by immigration concerns, with more than a million tickets sold during FIFA’s initial rollout in October.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio added, «The United States is offering prioritized appointments so FIFA World Cup fans can complete their visa interviews and demonstrate eligibility. Kickoff is approaching, so now is the time to apply. We are honored to host the largest and most secure World Cup in history.»

Published on November 18, 2025